8 Best Hill Stations to Visit in Bhutan for Himalayas Experience

Namgyal Chorten, Punakha Valley, Bhutan

Bhutan is a Buddhist kingdom, which has thrilling hill stations. This amazing place is situated in the Himalayan ranges. Hence surrounded by high-rise mountains. Bhutan is a perfect holiday destination, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of nature. This place is best known for its monasteries and dramatic landscapes.

Tourists love to visit the popular and adventurous trekking destination in Bhutan. So, here we are listing out some best hill stations in Bhutan. If you are interested in the sky-scrapping mountains and the stunning views of the perfect, then stay tuned till the end of the blog.

The Most Beautiful Hill Stations In Bhutan:

1. Paro

Paro hill is situated at the height of 2,200 meters above sea level.  Paro is popular for its beautiful landscape as well as rich vegetation. You will see huge rice fields spread all over the hill. Paro is the only place where you will find the International Airport in the whole of Bhutan.

The starting point for the trekking is from Taktsang Monastery. Some must visit places in Paro are Chele La Pass, Drunk Choeding Temple, Rinpung Dzong, National Museum, and Drukgyel Dzong, Tigers Nest.

  • Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November.
  • How to Reach: Paro International Airport is Bhutan’s only international airport, making it the easiest point of entry for international travelers.
  • Why Visit: Paro is a beautiful valley town surrounded by towering mountains, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. It’s home to the iconic Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) perched on a cliffside.
  • Things to Do: Visit Tiger’s Nest, explore Paro Dzong, enjoy hikes in the Paro Valley, and visit Kyichu Lhakhang (one of Bhutan’s oldest temples).

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2. Thimphu

Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan located at a height of 2,334 meters above sea level. This place is one of the most popular Buddhist sites in Bhutan. Although here we have many cultural places and spiritual spots to visit many points to do adventurous activities. You will find a number of pubs, cafes, bars, lounges, and restaurants to hang out.

Thimphu depicts a mixture of tradition and modernity. There is a memorial Chorten, made in the name of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. He is the third king of Bhutan. The must-visit places in Thimphu are Changangkha Lhakhang, Memorial Chorten, Archery in Thimphu, and Buddha sitting on top of a KuenselPhodrang, Royal Textile Academy.

  • Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November.
  • How to Reach: Thimphu is around 55 km from Paro, accessible by road.
  • Why Visit: Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, is nestled in the valley of the Wang Chhu River, surrounded by scenic mountains. It combines traditional Bhutanese culture with modern development.
  • Things to Do: Visit Buddha Dordenma Statue, explore Tashichho Dzong, stroll through the Centenary Farmers’ Market, and hike to the Tango Monastery.

3. Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong is also known as the Pungthang Dewa chhenbiPhodrang.Here you can chill in the holidays. This is the second-largest Dzong in the whole of Bhutan. Punakha Dzong is located at the bank of the male river PhuChhu and at the bank of the female river Mo Chhu.

Here you will get to see the stunning views and lots of adventurous activities. Some must-visit places are Mo Chhu, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup, KhamsumYulley Namgyal Chorten, Lhakhang, Chimi Lhakhang, and Ritsha.

  • Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to November.
  • How to Reach: Located 72 km from Thimphu, Punakha is accessible via a scenic road journey through the Dochu La Pass.
  • Why Visit: Punakha is known for its stunning dzong (fortress), set at the confluence of two rivers, and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
  • Things to Do: Visit Punakha Dzong, hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple), and experience the serene beauty of the surrounding valley.

Read also: Sacred Sites: Temples in the Himalayas

4. Trongsa

This district is one of the oldest places, which represents the architecture of the older times. Trongsa covers an area of around 1,807 km square. The monasteries and the cultural points will make you feel blessed. Although the views at the bank of Mangde Chhu River will leave you stunned.

Though the Trongsa hill promises you the breath-taking view of the deep valley and long spread rice fields. Some must visit places in Trongsa are KuengaRabten Places, Trongsa Dzong Fortressand Chendeje Chorten.

  • Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November.
  • How to Reach: Trongsa is about 200 km from Thimphu, reachable by road.
  • Why Visit: Located in central Bhutan, Trongsa offers magnificent views of the Black Mountains and is home to the historic Trongsa Dzong.
  • Things to Do: Visit Trongsa Dzong, explore the Ta Dzong Museum, and take in panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.

5. Phobjikha

Phobjikha is very popular among tourists. Located at the height of 3,000 meters above sea level. Though it is also known by the name Gangtey Valley. This name is driven by the Gangtey Monastery. The best time to visit the Phobjikha is in the month of November because in November the whole hill station celebrates a festival named Crane Festival.

Some must-visit places in Phobjikha are Kuenzang Chholing Shedra, Damchen Lhakhang, Trongsa Dzong Fortress, Kumbhu Lhakhang, and Wangmo Hand-Woven Carpet Factory.

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March (best time to see black-necked cranes).
  • How to Reach: Phobjikha Valley is around 135 km from Thimphu, accessible by road.
  • Why Visit: This glacial valley is famous for its scenic beauty and as a winter home to the endangered black-necked cranes. It offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by mountains.
  • Things to Do: Visit Gangtey Monastery, enjoy birdwatching, and explore the valley on foot or by bike.

6. Bumthang

Bumthang is situated at a height of 2,600 meters above sea level. Jakar Valley is another name given to Bumthang. This hill station is very popular because of the mythical and spiritual stories hidden deep in the land of Bumthang. Some must-visit places in Jakar Valley are Wangdichholing Dzong, Namkhe Nyingpo Goemb, Lamey Goemba, and Membartsho.

  • Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November.
  • How to Reach: Bumthang is about 268 km from Thimphu, accessible by road or via domestic flights to Bathpalathang Airport.
  • Why Visit: Bumthang is often considered Bhutan’s spiritual heartland, with numerous ancient monasteries and temples. The valley is surrounded by lush greenery and mountains.
  • Things to Do: Visit Jakar Dzong, explore the Kurje Lhakhang, and trek through the picturesque valleys.

7. Phuentsholing

Phuentsholing is located at the height of 293 meters above sea level, on the foothill of the Himalayas. Thought Phuentsholing is the border of Bhutan. The selenic beauty of the valley will mesmerize you.

Some of the must-visit places in Phuentsholing are Zangto Perli Lhakhang, Wangdichholing Dzong, Amo Chhu Crocodile Bleeding center, KarbandiMonastry, and Torsa riverside.

  • Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November.
  • How to Reach: Phuentsholing is a border town with India, accessible by road from India via West Bengal.
  • Why Visit: Phuentsholing is a commercial hub, but its surrounding hills and proximity to the Himalayas make it an interesting stop for travelers entering Bhutan from India.
  • Things to Do: Visit Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre, explore Zangto Pelri Lhakhang, and enjoy scenic drives through the hills.

8. Bindu

Bindu is a tiny village located at the Indo – Bhutan border. The people of Bindu are very hospitable. This small village is popular for the farming of cardamom. You also have the opportunity to do adventurous activities like trekking, hiking, zip-lining, and a lot more.

The farms and the valley look stunning from the hilltop. Bindu is situated 85 kilometers from Jalpaiguri city. Some must-visit places in the Jaldhaka Hydel Project, Chapramari Sanctuary.

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March.
  • How to Reach: Bindu is located near the India-Bhutan border, accessible from Siliguri, West Bengal.
  • Why Visit: Bindu is a peaceful hill station near Bhutan, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills and river valleys. It’s ideal for a serene nature escape.
  • Things to Do: Explore Bindu Dam, visit tea gardens, and take short treks around the region.

Conclusion

Bhutan is an amazing place, with rich vegetation and huge rice fields. The astonishing landscape views and the amalgamation of the sky and snowcapped mountains will fill you with joy. Bhutan is a hub of monasteries, spiritual places, and cultural points. These monasteries are attached to many mythical stories and religious beliefs. Besides the old monuments, monasteries, and cultural and spiritual points Bhutan is filled with numerous trekking points. We hope this article helped you in finding the information which you require.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the most beautiful places to visit in Bhutan?
Some of the most beautiful places in Bhutan include Paro Valley, Punakha Dzong, Tiger’s Nest Monastery, and Bumthang Valley.

2. Which is the best hill station in Bhutan?
Thimphu, Paro, and Phobjikha Valley are popular hilly regions in Bhutan, offering scenic beauty and tranquil settings.

3. What are the famous tourist places in Bhutan?
Famous tourist places in Bhutan include the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Dochula Pass, and the Paro Taktsang.

4. Is Bhutan a good place to visit with family?
Yes, Bhutan is an excellent destination for family vacations with its peaceful environment, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty.

5. What is the height of Bhutan from sea level?
Bhutan’s average elevation ranges between 200 meters to over 7,000 meters above sea level, with mountainous regions and valleys.

6. Which place in Bhutan is known for its scenic beauty?
The Paro Valley is famous for its scenic beauty, dotted with monasteries, temples, and stunning landscapes.

7. Does Bhutan have any hill stations?
While Bhutan doesn’t have traditional hill stations, places like Paro and Phobjikha Valley offer similar experiences with their hilly terrains and serene environment.

8. What are the best tourist spots for nature lovers in Bhutan?
Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the Phobjikha Valley, Jigme Dorji National Park, and the Haa Valley for their natural landscapes and wildlife.

9. What is the capital of Bhutan?
The capital of Bhutan is Thimphu, known for its cultural heritage, monasteries, and scenic views.

10. Are there any mountains in Bhutan?
Yes, Bhutan is home to some of the highest mountains in the world, including Gangkhar Puensum, which is one of the highest unclimbed peaks.

11. What are the most famous places in Bhutan for tourists?
The most famous tourist attractions in Bhutan include the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Paro Valley, and the Royal Manas National Park.

12. What are some must-visit places in Bhutan for first-time travelers?
First-time travelers should visit Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), Thimphu, Punakha, and the stunning Phobjikha Valley.

13. What is the best time to visit Bhutan’s tourist places?
The best time to visit Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

14. Are there any valleys in Bhutan?
Yes, Bhutan is known for its beautiful valleys, including Paro Valley, Haa Valley, Bumthang Valley, and Phobjikha Valley, all offering picturesque views and serene landscapes.

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